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What is DRW? State designated “P&A” System* Private non-profit Federal mandate and access Serve people with all disabilities Directed by people with disabilities Sets annual priorities based on public feedback 2 * All DRW Services are Free

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DRW’s Services Technical Assistance Public policy Systemic legal services for disability discrimination or violation of rights Education and training – like this one on bar application developments 3

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2012 WSBA Membership Study SAMSHA: 20% of Washingtonians have a mental illness Only 1.3 % identified in the study; highest barrier intensity WSBA Conclusion: 8 “These results are troubling and further targeted study will be needed to ascertain fully the sources and causes of barriers to the legal profession for this group and to identify steps to reduce the incidence.”

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1. Question 24: During the past 5 years have you experienced, been diagnosed with, or undergone treatment for any condition or impairment (including, but not limited to, substance abuse or dependency, alcohol or dependency, or a mental condition, psychotic, mental, emotional, or nervous disorder or condition) which affects, or if untreated could affect your ability to practice law in a competent and professional manner? 10

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2. Question 25: Within the past two years, have you engaged in or exhibited any conduct or behavior that could call into question your fitness to practice law as defined in APR 22(a)? 11

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3. APR 22(a) Fitness - defined. Fitness is the absence of any current mental impairment or current drug or alcohol dependency or abuse which, if extant, would substantially impair the ability of the Applicant, Bar Association member, or Petitioner to practice law. 12

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3. APR 22(a) Fitness - defined. Fitness is the absence of any current mental impairment or current drug or alcohol dependency or abuse which, if extant, would substantially impair the ability of the Applicant, Bar Association member, or Petitioner to practice law. 13

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4. APR 24.2(d) Factors “Whether there is a current mental impairment.” “The nature, extent and duration of the Applicant's mental impairment.” “The Applicant's candor in the admissions process and before the Board when describing the impairment.” “Whether the applicant has received or is receiving professional mental health treatment appropriate for the impairment…” 14

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The Results So Far… All three law schools joined 89 signatories (you can still sign!) ACLU wrote own letter Board of Governor’s Workgroup Media attention DOJ settlement in LA 17

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The States Who Don’t Single Out… …Ask about conduct: Criminal charges Charged with fraud, conversion, breach of fiduciary duty Financial Discipline 18

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The Shaming Effect Singles applicants out Increases the closet factor Reduces who seeks treatment Forces applicants to choose between rights and profession Sends a message to the public that mental illness means you aren’t or wouldn’t be a good lawyer 19